infect
verb (used with object)
to affect or contaminate (a person, organ, wound, etc.) with disease-producing germs.
infected
-
past participleof infect.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof infect.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
infectverb (used with object)to affect or contaminate (a person, organ, wound, etc.) with disease-producing germs.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The judge erred in finding there was a substantial chance Patterson would be held in solitary confinement for years to come, and this "infected" his decision, the prosecution argued.
From Barron's ● Aug. 17, 2026
At least 12 of those infected in California were infants too young to be vaccinated.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 15, 2026
While rarely fatal, Lyme disease can cause rashes and flu-like symptoms among people who are bitten by an infected tick, and in some cases neurological problems.
From Barron's ● Aug. 14, 2026
Most scientists believe that exposure to an infected animal is a more likely origin for the pandemic.
From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2026
The Earth’s bacteria had infected the extraterrestrial invaders, who lacked immunity to them.
From "Spooked!" by Gail Jarrow
